“This is a committee that’s a third party commitment, a regional committee that the city is represented on,” said Mitchell. “It’s a regional partnership … that peeks into the decision-making of the Ministry of Highways.”

The presentation stated that the objectives of the SCTPC are to improve the “knowledge base and understanding of the transportation challenges and issues” in the area as well as “develop and maintain comprehensive transportation plans.” Those concerns and priorities are communicated to all levels of government.

“Roads are a provincial responsibility. One concern I’ve always had is that an organization like this allows the province to download its responsibilities,” said Coun. Brian Swanson. “To take on the advocacy role for this gives an MLA a free ride.”

Evans said that he feels the SCTPC is uploading information to the government to relay what are priorities are important for the locals.